Local firm, OSHA reach settlement

Company cited after worker's death to pay $19,600 for violations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reached a $19,600 settlement with a Toledo company that was cited for several safety violations after an employee's death this year.

According to OSHA, a NuCentry Textile Services LLC employee suffered hand and arm injuries Jan. 3 while attempting to service a folding machine. The man, who was not identified, died less than a month later, an OSHA spokesman said.

An investigation opened after the injury found multiple "serious" violations, including citations for a missing guard on a machine, failing to ensure proper procedures for employees servicing machines, exposing employees to risk of electrocution from a damaged main power disconnect switch, and not ensuring employees used proper protective equipment.

The incident happened at the apparel-cleaning company's business at 1 Southard Ave., near downtown Toledo.

OSHA initially proposed fines of nearly $40,000 against the company.

Scott Allen, a spokesman with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration office in Chicago, said NuCentry Textile Services since has hired a consultant to help it improve its safety program. In light of the company's good faith effort to improve worker safety, the agency cut the fine in half.